Shutting Off Your Water Supply Easily and Safely

A Quick Guide to Turning Off Your Water Supply

Sometimes, little plumbing issues become big problems fast. In those moments, stopping the water so you can better assess the situation should be your number one priority. However, many people fear they won’t know what to do with themselves when the time comes for the water to be shut off. Living without water readily available to wash your hands or flush a toilet may sound like a nightmare, but turning off your water for repairs doesn’t have to be so stressful if done correctly and at the proper time.

When Do I Need to Shut Off My Water?

It’s important to note that turning off your home’s water supply is a crucial step for most plumbing repairs, but it isn’t necessary for every little thing. When there’s a widespread water outage for any reason, for example, you don’t need to shut off the water because no damage is being done to your plumbing. There simply isn’t any water flowing. However, when a plumbing problem is actively causing home damage or if having the water on will make it more difficult to repair your plumbing, it’s best to turn off the water supply.

It’s recommended you shut off your water when:

• A pipe, fixture, or appliance is leaking
• The toilet is running constantly even after adjusting the parts in the tank
• A pipe bursts
• Water overflows

If it’s an emergency and you aren’t sure how to proceed, shut off your water and call your plumber’s emergency line as soon as possible.

How Do I Turn Off My Water?

There are three valves in and around your home that control your water supply. The type of problem you’re having determines where you go to shut off the water.

Turn the water off at the appliance.

• There are multiple appliances in your home that use water to function. If there is a problem localized to a specific appliance or water fixture, it’s probably best to turn off the water at the site of the issue. These water valves usually look like levers or circular knob valves. Turn the handle clockwise to shut off the water to fixtures such as faucets and toilets.

Turn off the water to the whole house.

• Like with your appliances and fixtures, you’ll be looking for a red, circular shutoff valve when you go to turn off the water to your entire home. Depending on where you live, the location of this valve may vary. In hot climates, this valve is typically located outdoors where the cold water pipe enters your home. In cold climates, it may be located indoors, usually next to the water heater.

Turn off water to the entire property.

• This valve turns off the water supply to your home and any outdoor fixtures you have such as sprinklers or misters. This valve is located in a concrete box in the ground out by the street. Open the house-side of the box and turn the valve clockwise until it stops. Do not leave it partially open or closed. This should be a last resort.

Plumbing Repair and Installation Services in Sacramento

Whether there’s a minor leak or a total catastrophe in your home, you need a team of experienced, fast-acting plumbing professionals on your side. We at Bonney Plumbing, Heating, and Air pride ourselves on our many years of dedicated plumbing service to the Rancho Cordova and Sacramento areas. Over the years we’ve built trusting, honest relationships within the community. Our excellent customer service and industry knowledge have earned us many loyal clients who turn to us for help when their plumbing needs an expert touch. Contact us online or call 800-444-0551 for fast, reliable service.